Foot Problems:
Flat Feet Treatment

Understanding Flat Feet

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to come into contact with the ground. At Podiatry International, we assess and treat flat feet in both children and adults using a personalized, evidence-based approach.

Flat feet are normal in infants and toddlers—most children naturally develop arches as they grow. However, in some individuals, the arch may not fully form, or it may flatten over time due to injury, age, or other health conditions.

In many cases, flat feet are flexible and painless, but for others, they may lead to discomfort, instability, or misalignment that affects the ankles, knees, hips, or lower back.

Signs & Symptoms

• Feet appear to have little or no arch, especially when standing
• Uneven shoe wear patterns (collapsing inward)
• Pain or fatigue in the feet, ankles, legs, or lower back
• Swelling along the inner side of the foot
• Difficulty standing on tiptoes

Causes of Flat Feet

• Heredity (family history of flat feet)
• Arthritis or inflammatory joint conditions
• Injury or trauma to the foot or ankle
• Musculoskeletal disorders or neuromuscular conditions
• Obesity, which adds excess pressure to the arch
• Tendon dysfunction, especially of the posterior tibial tendon

What You Can Do

• Wear supportive footwear with a firm heel counter and arch support

• Avoid high heels or flimsy, unsupportive shoes

• Stretch and strengthen calf and foot muscles

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the arch

• Use over-the-counter arch supports if needed

What Your Podiatrist at Podiatry International Can Do

• Conduct a physical exam and gait analysis
• Request imaging studies (X-rays, CT, MRI) to assess joint or tendon structure
• Recommend proper shoe modifications or inserts
• Prescribe custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and comfort
• Guide stretching and strengthening exercises
• If conservative treatments fail, evaluate for surgical correction to stabilize the arch